Course summary
Overview Geographical Information Systems (GIS) are a major component of information technology – and if you're interested in pursuing a career in this innovative, exciting field, our GIS Master's course will give you the tools to succeed. On this applied course, you’ll learn the fundamentals of using geospatial data for real-world solutions through a combination of practical work and background theory. You'll use the same software tools employed by professionals in the field, and find out how to apply practical GIS skills in a range of contexts. The course covers all the essential areas of geospatial data analysis, including GIS, remote sensing and Earth observation, geodatabases, programming, and field techniques. You'll analyse spatial data through your own project work and build on your previous studies and work experience, applying data analysis methods and software tools to help solve real world problems. Earth systems and environmental sciences at the University of Portsmouth is ranked 4th of all post-1992 universities for research quality as part of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021. The School of Environment, Geography and Geosciences offers a limited number of scholarships for international postgraduate students. Eligibility This course accepts UK, EU, and international students. Course highlights
- Get hands-on experience of using Geographical Information (GI) instruments, including GPS, Total Stations and 3D laser scanners
- Learn from experts with extensive industrial and consultancy experience and strong research portfolios
- Practise your GIS data collection skills, both in the field and in our GIS and remote sensing laboratory with its own dedicated GIS technical team
- Take part in three-days of fieldwork data collection at a National Trust conservation site with the processed data shared with the Trust to help inform their management practices
- Use licensed industry-standard software (Esri ArcGIS, ERDAS Imagine), processing techniques and datasets
- Learn image processing and spatial analysis techniques, including programming for GIS and remote sensing applications
- Complete a research project on a GIS topic of your choice, applying the principles of research design, data collection and analysis
- Geographical information system consultant
- GIS and data analyst
- Location planning analyst
- GIS technician
- Software development engineer
- Spatial analyst
- Remote sensing analyst
- Ramboll
- South East Water
- Engenie Ltd
- Transport for London
- Esri
- ICEYE
- Fugro
- RPS Group
- CityFibre
- Two days per week of on-campus, in-person teaching (Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
- Three days per week of self-directed study time
- One day per week of on-campus, in-person teaching (Wednesdays in Year 1, Tuesdays in Year 2)
- One-and-a-half days per week of self-directed study time
Modules
Core modules (full-time):
- Applied GIS and Remote Sensing (30 credits)
- GIS and Database Management Systems (30 credits)
- Principles of GIScience (30 credits)
- Research Skills and Project (60 credits)
- Terrain Evaluation and Natural Hazards (30 credits)
- Applied GIS and Remote Sensing (30 credits)
- Principles of GIScience (30 credits)
- GIS and Database Management Systems (30 credits)
- Research Skills and Project (60 credits)
- Terrain Evaluation and Natural Hazards (30 credits)
Assessment method
You'll be assessed through:
- Coursework
Entry requirements
A second-class honours degree or equivalent in Geography, Geology, Earth Science, Applied Geology, Civil Engineering, Environmental Science or a related discipline. Professional experience in a relevant area and other qualifications may be taken into consideration for applicants not meeting this requirement.
English language requirements
| Test | Grade | Additional details |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS (Academic) | 6.5 | English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0. |
| PTE Academic | 65 | An overall score of 65 with a minimum of 62 in each skill. |
| TOEFL (iBT) | 91 | 91 with a minimum of 20 in Reading, 19 in Listening, 21 in Speaking and 20 in Writing. |
| Cambridge English Advanced | Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) (taken after January 2015). An overall score of 176 with no component score less than 169. | |
| Cambridge English Proficiency | Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) (taken after January 2015). An overall score of 176 with no component score less than 169. | |
| Trinity ISE | Trinity College Integrated Skills in English (ISE) Level III with a Pass in all 4 components. |
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| EU | £9400 | Year 1 |
| England | £9400 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £9400 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £9400 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £9400 | Year 1 |
| Channel Islands | £9400 | Year 1 |
| Republic of Ireland | £9400 | Year 1 |
| International | £17200 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Students who are resident in EU countries: please note that the net fee is inclusive of the Transition Scholarship.
Fees are accurate at the time of publishing and are subject to change at any time without notice.
Fees may also go up in later years, in line with inflation.
Provider information
University of Portsmouth
University House
Winston Churchill Avenue
Portsmouth
PO1 2UP